Final answer:
It is possible for voters in a democracy to elect a leader with an authoritarian bent, which can lead to the erosion of democratic processes. Historical and contemporary examples exist where elected leaders have undermined elections to consolidate power. The legitimacy of these governments on their responsiveness to the people and the protection of democratic rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a majority of the voters in a democracy have an authoritarian personality, it is possible that they could indeed vote someone into power who might prevent free and fair elections in the future. Historically, and even in contemporary politics, there have been instances where democratic elections have led to the rise of autocratic leaders or regimes that subsequently eroded the democratic process. Instances of this occurrence reflect the concern raised by Alexis de Tocqueville, who warned of the tyranny of the majority in a democracy.
Election integrity can be compromised not only by overt acts like rigging ballot boxes but also through voter suppression, which includes harassment and violence against voters, or systemic obstacles that impede certain groups from voting. In the context of Latin America, surveys have revealed a mistrust in the effectiveness of democracies to guarantee rights such as freedom of speech, with many people perceiving that their democratic rights are not adequately protected. This erodes confidence in the democratic process and can make societies more susceptible to authoritarian governance.
Legitimacy of governments in a democratic context is directly related to the will of the people. However, when elected officials utilize their position to consolidate power and undermine democratic institutions, the question of legitimacy stretches beyond mere election results. It involves whether those in power are responsive to the needs of the people they govern. Societies facing such a scenario often have to grapple with the harsh reality that constitutional rights can be curtailed or enforced unequally, making the slide towards authoritarianism easier.